KIDS’ PAGE

By:     Colleen McDonald 

Easter for UU’s.                                      March 27, 2002

Easter (like Christmas) can be a confusing holiday for Unitarian Universalists.  It is a special day for Christians, because it is a time for remembering and honoring Jesus, the great teacher who inspired their religion.  For most Unitarian Universalists of today, however, the life, teachings, and example of Jesus are just a small part of our search for what is true and right.  So why do we celebrate Easter?

One answer is that the first Unitarians and Universalists considered themselves to be followers of Jesus,  and celebrating Easter is one of our traditions-- UU’s have been celebrating Easter for hundreds of years.

Another answer is that Easter is one of the biggest holidays in our country, because Christianity has been considered the major religion of the American people.  Though more and more people in the USA  are following other religions (such as Buddhism and Islam), I would guess that most US citizens celebrate Easter in some way (even if it is just by dying eggs, going on an Easter egg hunt, or getting together for a special meal with their family).

One more answer is that Easter is a springtime holiday; and Unitarian Universalists agree that the return of longer days and warmer temperatures, the beginning of the growing cycle, and the birth of new life are wonderful and joyous events to be celebrated.  Many UU’s say that when they celebrate Easter, what they are really celebrating is spring.

For me, Easter is a reminder that life is a mystery. Growing seeds and newborn babies are miracles we  will never fully understand; and no one knows for sure what will happen to us when we die.  We come to church on Easter Sunday, and every Sunday, to give thanks for the gift of being alive in this incredible world of ours, full of magic and surprise.  We also come to be strengthened, encouraged, and loved by a community of people who want to use life in the best possible way, who are glad that we are alive, and who will mourn for and remember us when we are gone.

Love,

Colleen